Potato Protein Extract

A PROTEIN EXTRACT of white potatoes is proving in ongoing research studies to be a powerful appetite suppressant.

Developed by Kemin Health, the protein—called proteinase inhibitor 2 (PI2)—is a primary ingredient in Kemin’s weight loss supplement called Slendesta.™ Kemin's formulation is marketed by a number of other supplement companies.

One recent study at Iowa State University showed that when a person ingests PI2, it stimulates the release of the digestive satiety hormone cholecystokinin (CCK) when food is eaten, and this hormone signals a feeling of fullness. An increased feeling of satiety results in less food consumed at meals, and this satiety continues beyond meals to reduce between-meal snacking as well. 

The ISU study—largest in a series to test the weight loss potential of PI2—involved about 240 participants who were followed for a span of 12 weeks. Study participants given 30 milligrams of PI2 an hour before the two largest meals of the day showed marked weight loss as compared with those who had been given a placebo. 

Mike Adams (the “Health Ranger” and owner of the respected health site NaturalNews, says: 

“This potato protein extract looks promising as a safe, natural appetite suppressant. In my personal testing so far, I have found it helps take the edge off of late night hunger, especially when combined with pinolenic acid.” (See menu tab to the left on pinolenic acid.) 

How PI2 works 

As noted, PI2 stimulates release of the hormone CCK. This hormone is then released from entero-endocrine cells that line the small intestine. When released in response to ingestion of food, CCK travels through the bloodstream and acts on the gastrointestinal tract, where it stimulates enzyme secretion and delays gastric emptying, thus leading to feelings of fullness. 

But CCK not only acts on the body but also on the brain to produce feelings of satiety—the behavioral response associated with feeling “full.” The combined result of these actions leads to a decrease in food intake.

GOOD SOURCE OF PI2